FOODlog #213: Smoked Beef in Coconut Broth

A couple of weeks ago I met up with a friend for dinner after work. Went to a place called 'Itik Salai' which translates as smoked duck. They serve a variety of local Malay dishes that have smoked meats in them like smoked duck which is their signature dish and also smoked beef cooked with coconut milk and various herbs and spices.

These sort of 'salai' dishes have become popular in Malaysia over the past few years and it's so great to have so many different types of food and cuisines to choose from and sample here in Malaysia.

I ordered their 'Daging Salai' which is beef that have been smoked and then stewed in a coconut broth with turmeric, yellow ginger leaves, birds eye chili which are super spicy, lemongrass, and other aromatics. The color of the dish is also so vibrant with a bright yellow orangey coconut broth that's super hearty and delicious.

The broth is on the thin side but it is creamy and just the right consistency to be drenched in rice, soaking up all the goodness of the spicy coconut broth and the savory and smoky beef slices.

The meal also comes with half a salted duck egg and some more spicy 'sambal' not that you need any more spiciness. A super delicious meal and a must try if you're ever here in Malaysia.